Christmas and New Year are just around the corner. A
14-meter-high Christmas tree has been lighted in Xintiandi, setting
the stage for holiday programs.
Bright red poinsettia-patterned stained glass decorations and
elegant silver ornaments have been put up at the Xintiandi South
Block Plaza to create a holiday ambience around the tree.
This is the sixth season for year-end festivities at Xintiandi.
"We hope all these decorations can convey our best wishes to the
people of Shanghai," says Vincent Lo, chairman and CEO of Shui On
Land, the developer of the entertainment complex.
The lighting ceremony and holiday programs are a collaboration
with Wai Yin Assn, a charity formed by Miss Hong Kong contestants
and title-holders.
To mark the 25th anniversary of both the association and Shui On
Land's own charity organization, the Seagull Club, the two parties
have donated 200,000 yuan (US$26,700) to the Shanghai Women's
Federation Health Fund. The aim is to help more women receive
medical and health care services.
A charity photo contest opens today. Around 100 photographers
from Hong Kong and Shanghai capture Xintiandi's appeal, as well as
Miss Hong Kong's charm. All the proceeds go to the women's
federation health fund.
Starting next week, musical performances will be staged
outdoors. From next Thursday to Sunday, the Christmas music
showcase will feature the Australian band "The Bang!" The show
blends upbeat percussion with a near-acrobatic performance that
borders on chaotic.
The four-member American group Marcoux Corner, however, will
offer a cappella vocal pleasure from December 21 to 25, singing
Christmas tunes as well as Beatles' classics.
On New Year's Eve, Xintiandi will present its grand traditional
gala - the 2008 Xintiandi Countdown Party at the Taipingqiao Lake.
Taiwanese singer Emil Chau and girl group S.H.E will sing their
best-known hits.
Through December 25, anyone who spends 500 yuan in credit card
purchases at two or more Xintiandi or Corporate Avenue tenants will
receive one ticket to the Countdown Party. For details, check
www.xintiandi.com.
"The Bang!"
Date: December 13-16, 6:30-7PM, 8-8:30PM, 9:30-10PM
Marcoux Corner
Date: December 21-25, 6:30-7PM, 8-8:30PM, 9:30-10PM
Address: The South Block Plaza (intersection of Xingye and
Madang roads)
Tel: 6386-1818, 6323-6006
(Shanghai Daily December 7, 2007)